1232 
3 S8 
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NO PLAYS EXCHANGED. 



f\MCR'3 Edition 
or Pl7\y3 



SUNBONNETS 




COP^'GHT, 1889. BY WALTEH h. BAKER <&, CO- 



A. W. PINERO'S PLAYS. 

Uniformly Bound in Stiff Paper Covers, 
Price, 50 cents each. 



/IS 



The publication of the plays of this popular author, made feasible by tbe new 
Copyright Act, under which his valuable stage rights can be fully protecteil, 
enables us to offer to amateur actors a series of modern pieces of the highest 
class, all of which have met with distinguished success in the leading English 
and American theatres, and most of which are singularly well adapted for ama- 
teur performance. This publication was originally intended for the benefit of 
readers only, but the increasing demand for the plays for acting purposes has 
far outrun their merely literary success. Witli the idea of placing this excel- 
lent series within the reach of the largest possible number of amateur clubs, we 
have obtained authority to offer them for acting pui-poses at an author's roy- 
alty of 

Ten Dollars for Each Performance. 

This rate does not apply toprofessional performances, for which terms will be 
made known on application. 



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•/ T ADV "RniTlMTTFTTT I ^ P^^y "^ ^our Acts. By Arthur W. 

U/ A^-"-"-^* OWUi-S iirui^. PiXERO. Eight male and seven female char- 

7K acters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, four 

k|j interiors, not easy. A play of powerful sympathetic interest, % little sombre in 

:i\ key. hut not unrelieved by humorous touches. (1892.) 

Vf/ 



T*T-TF AIVTAZOIVJ^ I a Earclcal Romance in Three Acts. By Arthur 
X r^C .f^lvi-^^^WlNO. I ^y piNERO. Seven male and five female char- 
———————————' acters. Costumes, moderai; scenery, an exterior 

and an interior, not at all difficult. This admirable farce is too well known 
through its recent performance by the Lyceum Theatre Company, New York, to 
need description. It is especially recommended to young ladies' schools and 
colleges. (1895.) 

THEi:ABINET MINISTER. ] l„.S;;",\l"p,?i.*S'„ ,„5J 

' and' nine female characters. 
Costumes, modern society ; scenery, three interiors. A very amusing piece, in- 
genious in construction, and brilliant in dialogue. (1892.) 

"T) A "JVIT^V" "DTrTT I A Farce in Three Acjs. By Arthur W. Pinrro. 
•*^'*^^^-*-^ ^ J-/iv-iX\.« Seven male, four female characters. Costumes, mod- 
■' em ; scenery, two interiors. This very amusing piece 
was another success in the New York and Boston theatres, and has been ex- 
tensively played fi-om manuscript by amateurs, for whom it is in every respect 
suited. It provides an unusual number of capital character parts, is very funny, 
and an excellent acting piece. Plays two hours and a half. (1893.) 

T'TJTC' T-TO'R'RV MOT?^"!? I A Comedy in Three Acts. By Arthur 
1 rxc r:i^^X>i:> I nKJIS^C* ^ Pinero. Ten male, five female char- 

' acters. Scenery, two interiors and an ex- 
terior ; costumes, modern. This piece is best known in this country through the 
admirable performance of Mr. John Hare, who produced it in all the principal 
cities. Its story presents a clever satire of false philanthropy, and is full of 
interest and humor. Well adapted tor amateurs, by whom it has been success- 
fully acted. Plays two hours and a li'alf. (1892.) 



SUNBONNETS 



A Farce-Comedy in Two Acts 



By MARIAN D. CAMPBELL 

Author of •'' An Open Secret,^' '* A Chinese Dummy,''' '^ An 
Unconscious Conspirator^'' etc. 






BOSTON 

WALTER H. BAKER & CO 

1900 



bU^a^5 



il^h-^rvz^ AUG2319W ^^Hu^^/zp^ 

SEP 18 1900 ^„.„.^^^„„ P<il^'^ 

CHARACTERS i •^r-a j 

Mrs. Butterfield, a practical person, who takes summer 

boarders. 
Charlina, her fourteen-year-old daughter. 
Mrs. DuBois, an unpractical person, who boards with Mrs. 

Butterfield. 
Mildred, her sixteen-year-old daughter. 
Miss Tryphena Sanford, an inquisitive little post- 1 > '-^ g 

mistress. i ai <^ 22 

Mrs. Pheelan, a kindly old friend of Mrs. Butter- \ o^ g f - 

field. 
Mrs. Martin. 

Mrs. Tibbetts. 

Mrs. Pendleton. 

Miss Malvina Spinney. 

Mrs. Crannon the minister's wife. 



G.3 



. ^ S ^ 3 

e-h ■< 03 fC 



D ^ o 




Copyright, 1900, by Walter H. Baker & Co. 



COSTUMES 



Act I. — Mrs. Butterfield, Mrs. Pheelan and Miss Tryphena, 
plain print presses, with turn over collars. Mrs. B., hair in 
curl papers, others have sunbonnets. Mrs. D., elaborate tea- 
gown, hair much crimped. Charlina and Mildred, light ging- 
ham dresses ; Charlina wears apron. 

Act IL — Mrs. B. has on a white apron, same dress. Mrs. 
Ph., same dress, black knitted shoulder cape. Miss Try., same 
dress. Mrs. Martin, plain dress with bow at the neck, sunbon- 
net. Mrs. DuBois, black silk. Charhna and Mil., short mus- 
lin dresses. Members of the L. B. wear dark woolen or silk 
dresses, rather short in the skirts and sleeves, bonnets trimmed 
with artificial flowers of all colors. 



PROPERTIED 



Bowl, spoon, apples, pan and knife, carving knife, cake pan, 
eight plates, eight cups and saucers, feather duster, two tea- 
pots, mirror, clock, biscuit, cake, pie, cold meat, knifes, forks, 
spoonholder, two letters. 



Sunbonnets. 



ACT I. 

SCENE. — A ** living room " at the Butter fie Ids'. Doors r. l. 
andc. back ; windows R. and l. ; cupboard agai^istwall r. of 
rear entrance. A square table covered with a red and white 
checked table cover against the wall on each' side ; two small 
chairs near the table on the r. ; a large cane seat rocking 
chair in the centre ; a small sofa covered with cret07ine or 
horsehair against the wall l. back. A few chrofjios 07i the 
walls and dishes in the cupboard, but no ornaments of any 
sort. 

Enter Mrs. Butterfield beating eggs in bowl ; goes to win- 
dow R. 

Mrs. B. {calling). Charlina ! Charlina ! 

Charlina (outside). Yes, ma ! 

Mrs. B. Don't gather no more of them Northern Spies ; 
they don't stew up good. 

Char, (voice outside). No, ma. 

Mrs. B. (coming down c). Them Greenings make the 
most tasty sauce, and you know as well as I do that when it 
comes to apple-sauce, the Women's Aid Society knows what's 
what. {At window.) Hurry up, now, and then you want to 
come in and help me beat up that cake. 

Char, (outside). Yes, ma ! 

Mrs. B. And knead down them biscuit. 

Char, (outside, sadly). Yes, ma. 

Mrs. B. And help set table. 

Char, (outside). Yes, ma. 

Mrs. B. You ought to be thankful, Charlina, that your 
mother's a member of the Women's Aid Society, and don't try 
to put on no style. If I was a member of the Ladies' Benevo- 
lent now, you'd have hot apple pie and fruit cake to make — 
and then how would you feel ? 

5 



O SUNBONNETS. 

Char, {outside). Yes, ma. 

Mrs. B. {sits in rocking-chair with her face turned toward 
the window). Well, you needn't never worry now about that, 
Charlina* The Ladies' Benevolent may be too tony for us, but 
I'm thankful to say I'll never hev to run my feet off cooking 
for them. {Rocks back and forth.) If they want to call us in 
the Women's Aid '' Sunbonnets," jest because we don't put on 
our best hats when we're just going to step over to a neighbor's 
to set for a while — why they can call ! {At window ; con- 
fidetitially .) I ain't the one to say anythin' slightin', myself, 
but / believe in doin' your work as easy as you can, and get- 
tin' it done and stoppin' — and that's what some members of 
the Ladies' Benevolent don't seem to be able to do. Why, jest 
the other day I was passin' Mis' Pendleton's, three o'clock in 
the afternoon, and there was Mis' Pendleton out on the back 
porch, peelin' pears for pickhn', — and her hair not out of 
papers yet. {Sits down ajzd begins to rock again.) Thinks I 
to myself, I wouldn't do it — not for the great Mr. Get-out him- 
self I wouldn't. I calculate to get my hair out {pats com- 
placently her hair, which is in curling papers) and my white 
apron on, soon es I get my dinner dishes out the way, and if 
my family don't hev pickled pears, why they don't hev pickled 
pears and — you listenin', Charlina? {Goes to window.) 
Charlina ! Charlina ! Well, I declare ! Well, I do declare, 
ef that ain't shif 'less. There she is, basket on the ground — 
not within speakin' distance of the tree — and apples over there 
and she runnin' back and forth pickin' 'em up one at a time, 
for all the world as ef she was hevin' a potato-race with her- 
self. {Laughs softly.) Charlina! Charlina! jest like her 
father, jest like her father. Mr. Butterfield would walk four- 
teen times round a pin before he'd pick it up, and she's goin' 
to take after him — and me with a family of boarders on my 
hands — and land knows, it's all one woman wants to do, run- 
nin' round after Mis' DuBois, picking up the things she's 
dropped — let alone Mildred who like as not thinks raised bis- 
cuit grows on trees. {Laughs.') Charlina! Charlina! 

(Miss Tryphena Sandford appears in door c. back with 
three post-cards in her hand. She knocks against the 
wall. ) 

Mrs. B. {turfting). Well, Miss Pheeny, you knockin' ? 
You're gettin' citified. Come in. 



SUNBONNETS. 7 

Miss T. {looks all around the room). Gettin' ready for the 
Women's Aid, ain't you ? 

Mrs. B. (coldly). I be. 

Miss T. (with air of malicious delight). Comin' this after- 
noon, ain't they? 

Mrs. B. So I expect, of course — they said they was. 

Miss T. {waving post-card before Mrs. B.). Well, look 
there ! 

Mrs. B. {trying to get hold of it). Land, what is it ? 

Miss T. {waving second post-card). And there ! ! 

Mrs. B. Where are my specs, where are my 

Miss T. {handing all three to Mrs. B). And there ! ! ! 

Mrs. B. You read 'em. Miss Pheeny ; are they all for me ? 

Miss T. {taking post-cards back again). Well, no, they 
aifi't for you, exactly. They just come through the mail, and 
I was sortin' 'em out, and when I saw what was on 'em, I 
thought maybe ^y^z/'^ be glad to know — seein' as how you was 
makin' preparations for the Women's Aid. ' 

Mrs. B. Know? Know what? 

Miss T. There was several more of them, but I thought 
the folks might call for them, so I only brought along these. 
{Sticks her finger in Mrs. B.'s bowl and then sucks it.) 
What's that, cake? 

Mrs. B. {removing the bowl). Yes, cake. What does them 
postals say ? 

Miss T. {same business). Sponge ? 

Mrs. B. {sharply). No, gold and silver. 

Miss T. {triumphantly). I thought you wouldn't try sponge. 
Well, I thought it was my duty to prepare you, even if you did 
take it as rather of a shock. 

Mrs. B. (sinking into a chair). Take it — as a shock ! 

Miss T. (perching on the edge of a chair). But land, you 
must have known about it all along — hevin' Mis' DuBois right 
in the house. (In a stage whisper., leaning forward.) You 
ain't goin' to htw fruit cake, air you? 

Mrs. B. No, Miss Pheeny, what fer should I have fruit 
cake for the Women's Aid. What's good enough for my fam- 
ily is good enough for anybody, and I don't put -myself out 
for them. 

Miss T. (significantly). Air you goin' to put on your Sun- 
day bombazine ? 

Mrs. B. (rising). Well, what for should I feel any call to 
put on my Sunday bombazine ! If it's any satisfaction to the 



8 SUNBONNETS. 

Ladies' Benevolent to put on store-clothes when they visit a 
neighbor, why they can do it for all me. / don't believe in 
riggin' up for them as can see you every day, and know every 
stitch you've got, and every cent you paid for it. {Sarcastic- 
ally.) But them as formed a society for the sake of slaving 
themselves to death puttin' on style can do it. /ain't got 
nothing to say to them, and I hope I never shall. 

Miss T. {rising excitedly'). Then you don't know a thing ! 
Well, look there. {Holds out post- cards.) 

Mrs. B. {nervously). Oh, what is it, what is it — I ain't 
got my specs — break it to me gently, if it's bad news, but don't 
let me see you keep anything back, or you'll make me nervous. 

Miss T. {reads in a high voice., very slowly). " The Ladies' 
Benevolent society will meet with Mrs. DuBois at the house of 
Mrs. Hiram Butterfield, on Wednesday afternoon, July 14th." 

Mrs. B. {horror stricken). At my house — the Ladies' 
Benevolent ! 

Miss T. This very afternoon ! — And you expectin' the 
Women's Aid ! 

Mrs. B. But I — I ain't a member. 

Miss T. It's Mis' DuBois they're comin' to see. 

Mrs. B. She's been and invited 'em and never said a word 
to me ? 

Miss T. Boarders is a dreadful nuisance, Mis' Butterfield. 
I always told you so. 

Mrs. B. How'd she ever come to think of it? 

Miss T. I saw Malvina Spinney makin' up to her last Sun- 
day. Malvina thinks because she's a Ladies' Benevolent she's 
citified enough so she can be friends with summer boarders. 
We can't. We only belong to the Women's Aid. But I 
should have thought Mis' DuBois would have been more con- 
sid'rate ! 

Mrs. B. {sinking into a chair). Land. I never told her a 
thing about the two societies. Land ! land ! 

Miss T. Ain't she seen you getting ready, and never said 
a word ? 

Mrs. B. Miss Pheeny, you don't know Mis' DuBois. She 
ain't never one to take no notice, she ain't, and like as not she 
thinks I'm doing my fall cleaning. Shouldn't be a mite sur- 
prised. But gracious sakes, Miss Pheeny, what am I goin' to 
do, what am I going to do ? The two societies meetin' in my 
house at once — I'd liever have laid me down and died ! 

Miss T. Well, you didn't 'pear to have the choice ! 



SUNBONNETS. 9 

Mrs. B. Couldn't we put off the Ladies' Benevolent— ^Vj-/ 
'til to-morrow? 

Miss T. {shaking her head). 'Twouldn't do, no way. 
They meet on Wednesday, rain or shine. 

Mrs. B. {cautiously). Who was them postals to. Miss 
Pheeny ? 

Miss T. Well, I don't know as I ought to tell you, but 
seein' as how you happen to have read 'em anyhow — let's see, 
they're to Mis' Pendleton, and Miss Malvina Spinney, and 
Mis' Crannon. 

Mrs. B. {stage whisper), Hev them postals got to go. 
Miss Pheeny? 

Miss T. {angrily). Ef there's one thing more than another 
that I pride myself on, Mis' Butterfield, it's having the mail 
run as it should be ; and if you think I'm one to tamper 

Mrs. B. Oh, I know, I know, Miss Pheeny. I was just 
thinkin' it might be {Noise in the wings.) There's some- 
body has tripped over a chair. I guess Mis' DuBois is reading 
poetry. 

Enter Mrs. DuBois, l., a book open in her hand ; she trips 

over a chair. 

Mrs. D. {in a high but musical voice). Good-morning. 
Was that a chair ? Isn't it a fresh and beautiful morning. 

Mrs. B. and Miss T. {solemnly). Good-morning? 

Mrs. D. {sitting c). Really, the gods seem propitious. 
See the sun— always busy I see — I hope you do not find the 
preparations much trouble. 

Miss T. Preparations ! 

Mrs. B. Much trouble ! ! 

Mrs. D. I was wondering this morning whether I had told 
you about my little entertainment — I am so absent-minded — 
and here I find preparations well under way. I'm so delighted. 
I was afraid it might have slipped my mind — as things so often 
will. 

Mrs. B. {abruptly). It did ! 

Mrs. D. It ? 

Miss T. Mis' Butterfield ain't cookin' for your party, she's 
gettin' ready for her own. 

Mrs. D. {puzzled). Then we both entertain. {In an ex- 
pla7iatory tone.) Both have friends at once? 

Mrs. B. Well, we may both have friends, but I guess there 
won't be much entertaining done. 



10 SUNBONNETS. 

Miss T. Mis' Butterfield's expectin' the Women's Aid So- 
ciety; you've invited the Ladies' Benevolent. They ain't on 
speakin' terms. 

Mrs. D. {who has been trymg to Jind her place in her book, 
looks tip bewildered). Oh, then you are preparing for them ? 
Well, don't let my friends be any extra trouble. 

Mrs. B. {looks at her for a moment, then goes to window). 
Charlina ! Charlina, come on in with them apples right away, 
we'll slice 'em up for pies ; sauce ain't good enough for the 
Ladies' Benevolent. 

Char, {appears at door c, with her apron full of apples). 
Have I got to make the pie, ma ? 

Mrs. B. Now, Mis' DuBois, if I'd got anybody into a stew 
the way you hev, I'd wanf to flax 'round and help. So I ain't 
going to make no compiny out of you for one while. You 
come out to the cook-room and help stone raisins. 

Mrs. D. {rising hastily). Oh — certainly — delighted. I 

{She drops eyeglass case. Miss T. picks it up a7id hands it 
to her L.; then she drops handkerchief. Charlina picks 
it up and gives it to her r,; then she drops her book, while 
trying to hold the other things. Mrs. B. picks that up and 
gives it to her.) 

Mrs. B. There, Mis' DuBois, I guess that's about all, now. 
{Ties a large gingham apron about Mrs. D.'s waist.) You 
don't want to make an extra pair of hands, chopping citron, do 
you, Miss Pheeny? 

Miss T. I'd love to, I'd just love to, Mis' Butterfield, but 
I've got my mail to see to, and I don't never let anything 
interfere with that — never. [^Exit hurriedly L. 

Char. Ma, what you going to have the Ladies' Benevo- 
lent for ? 

Mrs. B. I ain't hevin' it — Mis' DuBois has got it. Don't 
you let the grass grow under your feet peelin' them apples, 
Charlina. Come, Mis' DuBois. {She takes Mrs. D. by the 
elbow, and goes out with her. ) 

Char, {letting apples fall, one by one). Oh ! oh ! oh ! 
oh! oh! oh! oh! The Ladies' Benevolent here! I don't 
wonder ma's cross ; and there are my apples gone too ! {Picks 
them up. Gets pan and knife from cupboard, sits down and 
begins to peel.) And apple pie and fruit cake to make ! No. 
I don't wonder ma's cross. And twice as many dishes to wash. 
And they call us Sunbonnets ! {her voice breaks) and I know 



SUNBONNETS. II 

there won't be near enough biscuit to go round, and they're 
just too stuck up for anything, and there won't be any cake 
left for me ! (She bursts into tears, and wipes off her eyes 
with the back of her hand.) Oh, what shall we do — what 

Enter Mildred l. with pink sunbon^iet in one hand and blue 

in the other. 

Mil. Oh, Charlina, I wanted to see you ; aren't they per- 
fectly dear. 

Char, {doubtfully). They're pretty, but they ain't much on 
style. 

Mil. Style ! Why, they're all the rage. 

Char, {inore cheerfully). Are you really going to wear 
'em? 

Mil. Why, of course, it's the most becoming thing I ever 
had on — and one is for you. Now, which is the prettiest? 

Char. Both. 

Mil. Let's try them on and see. 

(Mildred puts on the pink one, Charlina the blue ; they 
look at themselves in the glass, then turn and hug each 
other.) 

Both {ecstatically). Oh ! 

(Mil. puts on the blue, Char, the pink. They look in the glass, 
then turn and look at each other, then at the glass again, 
Mil. standing on tiptoe to see over Char.'s head.) 

Char, {taking off the pink and holding it out to Mil. ) . The 
pink goes best with your hair. 

Mil. ' And this is best with your dress. Let's put them on, 
now. 

Char. Yes, and then we'll wear 'em this afternoon to 

{Her face falls .) Oh, I forgot. I forgot! 

Mil. Why, what's the matter, dear? 

Char. Oh, my apples. I forgot. I must hurry. {Sits 
doivn r. and peels apples.) 

Mil. What about them ? 

Char. Oh, we've got to make them, you know, and they're 
both coming at once, and it's going to be perfectly awful. 

Mil. What's going to be awful, the fruit cake? 

Char, {half cry iiig). Oh, no — you understand. 

Mil. Yes, of course, you tell me all about it, and I'll help 
you peel. 



12 SUNBONNETS. 

Char. Your ma has got my ma into an awful mess. 

Mil. How — particularly ? 

Char. She's invited the Ladies' Benevolent, and ma expects 
the Women's Aid, and when they get shut up in that parlor 
together they'll be so mad they won't even speak. 

Mil. But it's a party, and you have to be sociable at a 
party. 

Char. You don't know 'em. They'll be so mad they'll go 
home, and they'll think ma's done it a-purpose, and they'll 
never speak to her again as long as they live — and your ma 
did it ! 

Mil. Sure ? 

Char. Sure. 

Mil. Then they mustn't come this afternoon — that's all. 

Char. They always have met on Wednesday and they 
always will. 

Mil. Tell them to come some other day. 

Char. That wouldn't be polite. 

Mil. That all depends on how you say it. Tell them 
mamma isn't quite ready for them. 

Char. That would be a lie. 

Mil. Oh, no, it wouldn't. Mamma never is quite ready 
for anything. (^Rises and tvalks about the room ; Char, still 
peels. ^ See here, we're the ones to do it, and we'll send word 
— no, we'll go and tell them. Let's see — Mrs. DuBois hopes 
the Ladies' — Ladies' what is it — 

Char. Benevolent. 

Mil. The Ladies' Benevolent will pardon a slight delay. 
She trusts the little entertainment she has in preparation may 
repay them for any little inconvenience which the delay may 
cause, and hopes to see them on Thursday afternoon. There ! 

Char. What's the little entertainment? 

Mil. ( taki7ig Char. ' s pan of apples and laying it on chair l. , 
hack). We'll think of that later. We've got to let 'em know 
before' two. Where do they live? {She takes Char.'s hands 
and pulls her up. ) 

Char, .ingoing c. ). Right on the street. We ought to tell ma. 

Mil. {pulling her h.). Tell her when we get back, hurry 
now, before they start to dress. 

{She pulls her along. Exeunt both l. Enter Mrs. DuBois, 
c, large gingham apron o?i over her wrapper, holds carv- 
ing knife a7td cake-pan.) 



SUNBONNETS. I3 

Mrs. B. (voice outside), Hev you got them cake-pans 
greased yet, Mis' DuBois? 

Mrs. D. {rubbing at outside of pan with knife). Not-^just 
^yet, Mrs. Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. (voice outside). Will you look on the right hand 
upper shelf and fetch me the cinnamon, please ? 

Mrs. D. (^places knife and pan on chair l. and goes to lower 
left-hand shelf ). Oh, certainly. 

Mrs. B. (voice outside). Right away, please, Mis' DuBois. 

Mrs. D. Yes. Here's the cayenne papper, Mrs. Butter- 
field. 

Mrs. B. (voice outside). Air you lookin' on the right hand 
or the left, Mis' DuBois? 

Mrs. D. (Jiastily). Here's the cinnamon, Mrs. Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. (appear i?ig at door c). And when you get them 
pans greased, jest dust off them piles of plates while I slip them 
biscuit into the oven. (She disappears again.) 

Mrs. D. Certainly. 

{She brings pile of plates to table r., looks around helplessly, 
looks at her apron, shakes her head, tries to dust them on 
the tablecloth, then sees a feather duster, gets that and 
dusts the plates off.) 

Enter Mrs. B. 

Mrs. B. Now; ef you'll give me them pans — land sakes 
Mis' DuBois why' don't you take a broom ! 

Mrs. D. {much flurried). Certainly, Mrs. Butterfield, 
what for? {She starts toward door c.) 

Mrs. B. Seems they didn't learn you housework where you 
was raised. We've got to flax round, I can tell you, if we 
expect to get everything done by two o'clock. Four extra 
pans of biscuit. 

Mrs. D. {comi?tg back, c). Yes, Mrs. Butterfield, I'm so 
sorry, 

Mrs. B. And two loaves of fruit cake. 

Mrs. D. I'm so sorry, Mrs. Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. And coffee to make. 

Mrs. D. I'm so sorry. 

Mrs. B. And then when they get here they'll be mad. 
{Crosses to l.) Great land of goshen ! Who's been using a 
bread-knife to butter a cake-pan ? 

Mrs. D. {following her, ti?fiidly). They use it to butter 
bread. 



14 SUNBONNETS. 

Mrs. B. That ain't no sign. You take a hand and get 
that table into shape while I get things red up a little out in 
the cook-room. 

Mrs. D. You mean — set it — ? oh, certainly. (Mrs. B. 
starts to door c.) 

Mrs. B. Well, what the old cat and all is that pan of ap- 
ples doin' settin' there. If that ain't Charlina to the life. She 
takes after her pa. Well, now, I'd like to know how I'm to 
get them pies out the way before dinner. 

Mrs. D. {coining across l.). I'll peel them for you, Mrs. 
Butterfield — oh, how lovely the red is with the white. 

Mrs. B. {taking her by the arm). Ef I was you, Mis' Du- 
Bois, I'd do one thing and stick to it. (Mrs. D. starts r. 
again,) But, then I suppose you might as well. (Mrs. D. 
sits down, with bitsiness of peeliiig apples awkwardly.) Ain't 
no time to cook no dinner, that's certain. {She begins to set 
table R.) 

Mrs. D. {cictting the whole side off an apple). I suppose 
we shall have to have a very light lunch. 

Mrs. B. {grimly). Looks like it. 

Mrs. D. Just a cup of cocoa, and some hot toast and a 
baked apple would be 

Mrs. B. How do you calculate you're going to bake bis- 
cuit and cake and pies and apples in the same oven, all to 
once? / guess we'll have some cold sody biscuit from break- 
fast, and a cup of tea. 

Mrs. D. {ineekly). Just as is most convenient for you, 
Mrs. Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. {as she sets the table). Now I'd like to know where 
Charlina is kitin' to, and them apples left settin'. Got 'em 
most done. Mis' DuBois? 

Mrs. D. Yes, two. 

Mrs. B. Well, it's a start. You may as well wash them 
two. I've got the paste all ready to slice 'em into, out in the 
cook-room. 

Mrs. D. {sets pan on floor y takes one apple in each hand). 
I'll do it. I can just as well. I'll do it for you, Mrs. Butter- 
field. \^Exit c. 

Mrs. B. {looking after her, thefi picking tip the pan). And 
slice in cores and seeds and all, — well, I needn't worry — she'll 
be one while finding out what to wash 'em in. {At wifidow.) 
Well, I declare, well, I do declare, if there ain't Ciny Pheelan 
walking down the street. {Calls.) Mis' Pheelan! You 



SUMBONNETS. I5 

comin' in ? Well, you better ! You just walk right in that 
gate and come and set awhile. That's right, now. {^Hurries 
out c. and returns almost immediately with Mrs. Pheelan.) 
Well, I am glad to see you, Mis' Pheelan. 

Mrs. Ph. I didn't know but I might hender you, if you 
was busy. 

Mrs. B. Ain't never too busy to see you. Mis* Pheelan — 
hev a chair. 

Mrs. Ph. {sitting down). Miss Trypheny dropped word in 
passin' that you was in consid'rable of a state, down here. 

Mrs. B. W^ell, we be. 

Mrs. Ph. Do tell. They say she'd invited 'em all, and 
never said a word to you. 

Mrs. B. She did. 

Mrs. Ph. Did you ever ! Well, Pd reason with her some, 
if I was you. 

Mrs. B. I hev. 

Mrs. Ph. Whereabouts is she, now ? 

Mrs. B. In the cook-room — washin' apples. I never see 
anybody so shif 'less, not in my born days. 

Mrs. D. {appearing with the apples in a hand basin). 
Where's the soap, Mrs. Butterfield ? 

Mrs. B. Never you mind about no soap. Apples, Mis' 
DuBois, ain't sufferin' for soap. {Aside to Mrs. Ph.) Like 
as not she'd use sand soap and the iron dishcloth. 

Mrs. D. {aside). Well, Pve got the hand basin and the 
little iron rag, anyway. \_Exit c. 

Mrs. B. Now Pll lay a couple of plates. You'll have a 
mouthful with us. Mis' Pheelan. Sit right down here. 

Mrs. Ph. {hitching her chair up to the table). Well, I 
didn't calculate gettin' nothing comin' round this time, but I 
guess I could relish a mouthful. 

Mrs. B. I'll get the teapot. 

(Mrs. Ph. sits at table, Mrs. B. goes out c. and comes back 
at once with the teapot.) 

Mrs. Ph. {as Mrs. B. comes back). Land, I can't get over 
it, to think of the two societies bein' brought together. I guess 
they'll be unpleasantness. Mis' Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. {pouring tea). I don't guess nothin' about it, 
'cause I know. 

Mrs. Ph. Why, they ain't even looked at each other sence 
I was a girl. 



1 6 SUNBONNETS. 

Mrs. B. {handing her a cup of ted). You was a member of 
the original society, wan't you? {They both pour their tea otit 
into their saucers?) - _ 

Mrs. Ph. {nods). Forty year ago. My stars, what a to-do 
they did have, to be sure. What between them as wanted to 
have things as they'd ahvays been used-ter, and they as wanted 
to be citified, and they as wanted to be peaceful — there wan't 
much done for the missionaries, them days. {Slowly driiiks 
her tea and pours some more into her saucer.) I'll never for- 
get old Mis' Greely and Mis' Spinney — Malvina's ma that was 
— never — not if I live to be a hundred, — which I hope I shan't. 
There was Mis' Greely there you might say, and Mis' Spinney, 
there. {Gesticulates.') Says old Mis.' Spinney, says she. 
'^Sunbonnets is a sign of vulgarity," says she. ''Them as is 
stuck up is no friends of mine," says Mis' Greely. Up they 
both got. '' I shake the dust of this house off my feet," says 
Mis' Spinney, and she shook 'em. ''Them as is too tony to 
have good manners '11 never darken my doors," says Mis* 
Greely; and with that up got every livin' soul, and home they 
trapesed. {She rises and gesticulates, Mrs, B. unconciously im- 
itating her.) Mis' Greely and her party by one door. Mis' 
Spinney and' her followin' by another; and the next week 
Wednesday they was two meetin's and two societies; and from 
that day to the day of their death, they two never spoke 
again. 

(Mrs. B. and Mrs. Ph. heave two very deep sighs, then sink 
slowly into their seats and pour out 7nore tea.) 

Mrs. B. And they been dead this ten year now. 

Mrs. Ph. Dead and gone this fifteen year, and more. I 
wonder if it's any comfort to 'em, where they are now, to know 
that the two societies hate each other yet, like sin.- I wonder 
now. 

Mrs. B. Why, it's most thirty years since I married into the 
town, and there's most half of it I don't know when I see — and 
likely never shall. 

Mrs. Ph. And they keepin' the same day for meetin' and 
all. I wonder what's the object they're sewin' for, now. 

Mrs. B. Well, I don't know, and I ain't sufferin' to know. 
Have another cup. Mis' Pheelan. You ain't eatin' a thing. 

Mrs. Ph. {pouring what is left in the saucer back into the 
cup). I'm makin' out nicely, thank you. Well, for your sake 
I hope it won't be a big meetin'. 



SUNBONNETS. 



17 



Mrs. B. Big or little's all the same to me. I'm past carin', 
now. Land sakes, I forgot all about Mis' DuBois. I'll go see 
what she's doin', now. \_Exit c. and returns with Mrs. D. 

Mrs. D. Yes, I should like a cup of tea. (^Airily.') Good- 
morning. 

Mrs. Ph. {stiffly). Good-morning. 

Mrs. D. {to Mrs. B.). And a shce of toast. 

Mrs. B. Ain't no fire to make no toast; here's your tea. 

Mrs. Ph. They do say it looks like rain on the hill. 

Mrs. B. {sets down teapot with a thump). They do — who 
do? 

Mrs. Ph. Mis' Dave Miller called out as I was passin'. 

Mrs. B. Blessin's to Providence, the Lord be praised ! 

Mrs. Ph. It'll put it off a spell, that's all; but I s'pose it's 
kind of easin'. 

Mrs. B. It'll separate 'em ! ! We in the Women's Aid put 
off our meetin' on account of rain. The Ladies' Benevolent 
meet whether or no / 

Mrs. Ph. Do tell. How did you know ? 

Mrs. B. They met to Mis' Tibbetts, over opposite one 
afternoon, and it was just comin' down in sheets, and every 
livin' soul was there. I spent the whole mortal afternoon 
peekin' through the blinds in the front room to make sure. 
Land, I feel like a new woman ! 

{Sinks into rocking-chair. Mrs. Ph. and Mrs. D. rise and 
go to windows u. and k.) 

Mrs. D. I knew it would come out all right. 

Mrs. Ph. {at window). Them clouds do look awful dark. 

Mrs. D. {turning to Mrs. B.). Some are blue and some 
are grey and some so dark and lowering. 

Mrs. B. And it won't be a big meetin' anyhow if it pours. 

Mrs. Ph. Well, it ain't pourin' yet. 

Mrs. B. It's got ter ! 

Mrs. Ph. Seems like the wind was risin'. 

Mrs. B. It's got ter. 

Mrs. D. And oh, such a fresh smell in the breeze. 

Mrs. B, {rocking back a7id forth). The Ladies' Benevolent 
'11 come and get it over this afternoon. And I'll stay up in the 
spare bedroom, and not meet 'em, and I'll tell every livin' 
soul of our folks, when they come to-morrow, that Mis' Du- 
Bois invited 'em, and I never laid eyes on 'em while they was 
here. 



l8 SUNBONNETS. 

Mrs. Ph. {turiiing from window, sadly). It's lightenin' up 
some ! 

Mrs. B. No, it ain't. 

Mrs. D. {coming down toward Mrs. B.) A beam of sun- 
light right across the mead 

Mrs; B. No such thing. 

Mrs. D. {looks out window, then hurries to Mrs. B.). The 
sun is gone. 

Mrs. Ph. {hurries a little way toward Mrs, B., then back to 
the window). The chickens are runnin'. 

Mrs. D. (same business'). The tops of the trees are 
swaying. 

Mrs. Ph. {same business). The wind has riz ! ! 

Mrs. D. {rushing down c, much excited). There come 
some men running. 

Mrs. Ph. Old Si Tibbetts on a lo'd of hay comin' pretty 
lively. 

Mrs. D. {still more excited). I hear a far-away patter. 

Mrs. Ph. {same business, quickly). Misty on the hill ! 

Mrs. D. The great grey fog is closing and the little drops 
are running. 

Mrs. Ph. {joyfully , coming down c). I presume to say it's 
coming down whole water. 

{Noise of rain. Mrs. D. beams with joy. Mrs. Ph. pats 
Mrs. B. on the shoulder.) 

Mrs. B. I knew it ! Never felt a mite worried all along — 
just as easy cook for two societies any day. Pll give the 
Women's Aid what's left of the fruit cake to-morrow. 'Tain't a 
mite of trouble having company if you only can have 'em 
sorted. 

{Sound of running, the girls dash in, their skirts over their 
heads, water running from their hair.) 

Char. We've fixed it. 

Mil. Yes, we've fixed it. 

Mrs. Ph. Fixed what? 

Mil.' We've been to see the Ladies' Benevolent, and when 
they understood they said they'd just as lief as not come to- 
morrow. 

Char. So they'll be here to-morrow. 

Mrs. Ph. To-morrow ! So will the Women's Aid. 



SUNBONNETS. I9 

Mil. and Char. Whaat ! What ! 

Mrs. Ph. (c, between the girls). It's rainin' — Women's 
Aid is put off until to-morrow. 

Mrs. B. {sinking into a chair). Great land of Goshen ! 



QUICK CURTAIN. 



ACT 11. 

SCENE. — The same. Curtain discloses two tables pitshed to- 
gether R. to 77iake 07ie long one, on which are laid so7tie 
plates, cups and saucers and a bowl of apple sauce. Mrs. B. 
is rocking violently in rocki?ig-chair, l. Mildred ar,d 
Charlina are setting' the table ; Mrs. DuBois is flutteri?ig 
nervously between the ivindow and the looking-glass. The 
girls tiptoe about in silence, every now and then running 
into each other, and' dropping whatever they hold. At each 
clatter Mrs. B. looks around angrily and mutters to herself. 
The girls become more and more nervous. At last they pan- 
tomime that they have lost something ; first Charlina looks 
for it, then Mildred. Both shake their heads ; Mil. points 
to Mrs. B. and then pushes Char, over toivard her. 

Char, {timidly'). Ma, where' s the butter-knife? 
Mrs. B. I s'pose likely where it belongs — less'n you've 
found a new place without letting o' me know. 

(Char, goes back to Mil., they contiftue setting table. Mil. 
is about to put down the spoonholder on the r. of the table ; 
Char, shakes her head. Mil. insists and points to Mrs. 
B. Char, takes the spoons and puts them l. Mrs. B. 
turns.) 

Mrs. B. Charlina Butterfield, you know that ain't where I 
put the spoons. 

Char. I — I didn't put 'em there, I just laid 'em down. 

(She goes to window R., stands wiping her eyes with the back 
of her hand.) 

Mrs. D. Yes, it is a charming day, and such a view. 

(Mil. hurries over to Char, with lump of sugar.) 

Mrs. B. She can't see much of it with the shade down. 

Char, {taking the sugar). Yes, it is pleasant. 

Mrs. B. Well, it wan't pleasant yesterday. 

Mrs. D. {nervously). Old Sol has come out to delight us 

with his beams and 

Mil. It's not so very hot either. 

20 



SUNBONNETS. 21 

Mrs. D. Don't interrupt me, Mildred ; you know how 
nervous it makes me. I wonder what time it is. 

Mrs. B. Most time for 'em to come, I guess. Well, I've 
got my plans made. Your friends '11 meet in the parlor, Mis' 
DuBois; I hope the Women's Aid '11 enjoy meetin' in my 
ground-floor bedroom, fixed up for a settin'-room. 'Tain't 
what they're used-ter. (Sighs.) 

Mrs. D. If you would prefer it, Mrs. Butterfield, you might 
have )^our friends in the parlor, and the Ladies' Benevolent 
could go to the bedroom. 

Mrs. B. Mrs. DuBois, if you think for one moment that 
I'm goin' to have the Ladies' Benevolent passin' remarks on 
my only hevin' one parlor, and criticisin' my best pillershams, 
you don't know me. But I tell you what. I may have to give 
up my parlor to folks that I hate like pizen, but I ain't goin' to 
Imve 'em slickin' up in my spare bedroom. Your friends can 
lay off their bonnets in here, Mis' DuBois, and then there won't 
be no danger of their meetin' the Women's Aid on the stairs. 
{Motions slightly r.) 

Mil. It is a good plan to keep the enemy separate. 

Mrs. B. Keepin' 'em separate ! Hev you thought what 
we're goin' to do when supper-time comes. 

Mil. Noo ! 

Mrs. D. (vaguely atteniive). No, really, I hadn't. 

Mrs. B. Well, as fur as I can see they're goin' to meet 
right here. 

Mrs. D. {atwindotv). I wonder what time it is, really. 

Mn.. Two minutes past. 

Mrs. B. I hope you feel yourself prepared, Mis' DuBois. 

Mrs. D. (coming down c, and slowly turning around'). 
How do I look, really ? 

Mrs. B. I ain't thinkin' much about looks, I'm thinkin' of 
supper-time — and the table ain't even set yet. Charhna Butter- 
field, you ain't done a stroke of work ! 

(Knocking ; all start Jiervously.) 

Char, (hurrying across to cupboard). There's some one. 
Mrs. D. (Jiurrying to mirror). My hair doesn't look right. 
Mrs. B. (crossing hastily to ^.). Tablecloth's on crooked. 
Mrs. D. Who is it ? ( 

Mrs. B. . Look out the winder, Charlina. 
Char, (at windoiu r.). I — I can't see. Oh, yes, it's Mrs. 
Crannon. 



22 SUNBONNETS. 

Mrs. B. That's your party, Mis' DuBois. (^Knocking.) 

Mrs. D. Who's going to the door ? 

Mrs. B. (^severely). I'm lettin' in my compiny, and / in- 
vited the Women's Aid. Thought I'd let you settle about your 
party yourself. 

Mrs. D. Oh, then — perhaps — I might go. 

Mrs. B. Looks like it. And remember, Mis' DuBois, the 
Ladies' Benevolent ain't my company. \_Exit Mrs. D. 

Mrs. B. {turning to Mil. and Char., who are still eating 
sugar'). Ef you and Charlina ain't got nothin' better to do 
than stand around you can go out in the kitchen and break up 
biscuit. 

Mil. {with her mouth full). Certainly. 

[Exeunt Mil. and Cb.kr., c, 

Mrs. B. {looking at door). I'd enjoy seeing how Mis' 
Crannon takes it — and I ain't obliged to speak. 

( Crosses to r. , and begins polishing spoons with her apron, 
vigorously. Enter Mrs. D. and Mrs. Crannon, a small, 
faded woman with large eyes and a deprecating smile.) 

Mrs. D. — And I hope your husband, the minister, is well. 
So kind of you to come. 

Mrs. Cran. {timidly). Yes, Mr. Crannon is very well. I 
was very glad to come. 

Mrs. D. {trying to include Mrs. B.). Y^s, we're all, 

we're all so glad to see you — to have you (Mrs. B. bangs 

the spoons upofi the table. Mrs. D. andM.R?>. C jump.) 

Mrs. Cran. Ye-es — thank you. 

Mrs. D. {getting more and more nervous). Won't you — 
will you lay aside your things — right here. Mrs. B. thought 
she'd save my friends the stairs. 

Mrs. B. {aside). Humph! Did she? 

Mrs. Cran. {taking off her bonnet). Thank you. So kind. 

Mrs. D. Now, if you'll come this way. Mrs. Butterfield 
has kindly allowed us the use of her parlor. 

Mrs. B, {angrily). Ahem ! 

Mrs. Cran. Yes, thank you — so kind. 

Mrs. D. I hope we shall have an enjoyable afternoon. It 
sweetens life so much to feel that there is something beyond 

sordid care which lifts 

\_Exeunt Mrs. C. and Mrs. D. still talking. 

Mrs. B. Well, there can't nobody say I made her welcome. 
Enter Char, with plate of biscuit ; more knocking. 



SUNBONNETS. 23 

Mrs. B. Look out the winder, Charlina. 

Char. It's only Mis' Pheelan. 

Mrs. B. {cheerfully). Til go. \^Rx{t Mrs. B. 

Mil. {appearing at door with biscuit ; sadly). It's no use 
to try to help people in this world. 

Char. No; if you tell them first they won't let you, and if 
you tell them afterward they get mad. {Both shake their 
heads.) 

Enter Mrs. B. ajid Mrs. Pheelan. 

Mrs. Ph. It's a dreadful trial, I know, Mis' Butterfield, 
but there's word of the circumstance been passed about, and 
there ain't many of our folks comin'. That'll be some easier. 

Mrs. B. Hev the Ladies' Benevolent heard what's to come ? 

Mrs. Ph. {sits down and begins to take off India rubbers'). 
I don't much believe so. I just mentioned it to Mis' Dim- 
mock, and she passed word to Mis' Rowing, but there ain't 
none of our folks can speak to none of the Ladies' Benevolent to 
tell 'em — less'n Mis' Si Wasdell — she that was a Women's Aid 
— she'd mention it to her husband's sister Mis' Spinney — and 
she's out o' town. 

(Mil. braids one of C'RA.'R.^s pigtails and ties it, r., back of 
stage during this conversation!. ) 

Mrs. B. Well, I suppose they'd come if they died for it — ■ 
they're so sot on meetin' Mis' DuBois. Mis' Crannon's here 
already. 

Mrs. Ph. {depositing rubbers neatly against the wall). Do 
tell ! Whereabouts ? 

Mrs. B. She's visitin' Mis' DuBois in the front parlor. I 
may as well tell you now, Mis' Pheelan, that we've got to put 
up with meetin' in my ground-floor bedroom, fixed up for a 
settin'-room. 

Mrs. Ph. {nodding slowly). I see. Keep 'em separate — and 
what will you do at supper-time ? 

Mrs. B. {sighs deeply). Land only knows — I don't. 

Mrs. Ph. Couldn't no way eat in the two rooms? 

Mrs. B. No way — they ain't been used ter it. {Sadly.) 
This way, Mis' Pheelan. 

\_Exeunt r., both shakifig their heads sadly. 

(Mil. and Cua'R. look at each other a7id sigh; more hiock- 
ing. Char, goes to window.) 



24 SUNBONNETS. 

Mil. Is it your party or my party ? 

Char. It's Mis' Pendleton. 

Mil. Mine ? All right. [Exif Mil, 

(Char, attempts to change position of a plate of biscuit and 
drops two on the floor. She glances about, then picks up 
both, rubs them on her apron a?id puts thejn back on the 
plate.') 

Enter Mil. a7id Mrs. Pendleton, a tall, round-shouldered 
'W07nan of fifty with thin lips and hooked nose, 

Mrs. p. {speaking with a slight drawl). Well, this is 
nice, Miss DuBois; it's real kind of your ma. {Puts on her 
spectacles and looks about the roojn.) Is this Mis' Butterfield's 
settin'-room ? 

Mil. No, this is the dining-room. Won't you lay aside 
your bonnet? 

Mrs. p. {crossing to table R.). Table's all set and all, but 
I thought I'd better ask. I don't feel real so to say acquainted 
here. {Counts the plates.) Must be expectin' quite a 
company. 

Mil. and Char, {embarrassed). Yes, we do. 

Mrs. p. {picking up one dish after another). It's a real 
item, that's just what it is, Nice looking biscuit, them are. 
{She picks up one and smells of it.) What with raisins- and 
citron and sugar and spice {proudly), 'tain't like the Women's 
Aid. We're kind of hard to suit, — but land, it's an item. 

Char, {aside ; looking out of the window). There's some 
one coming ! 

Mil. Won't you come into the parlor ? Mrs. Crannon is 
there already. 

Mrs, p. {indifferently, her attention fixed on the spoon- 
holder). Is she now? That all. {Leaving the table.) Now, 
that reminds me, there was something I wanted to ask you. 

Char, {to Mil. in loud whisper). It's Miss Trypheny ! 

Mil, {trying to take up Mrs. P.'s attention). Well, do ask 
me — I am so eager — so very anxious to hear. 

{A sound of '■^ Husssh f is heard from c. Char, puts 
her head in the door c, the7i turns, takes Miss Tryphena 
Sandford by the hand, lays one finger on her lips. Miss 
T. nods intelligently . They tiptoe across the stage in 
silence, Miss T. casting indignant glances over her shoul- 
der at Mrs. P. Miss T. goes out r.) 



SUNBONNETS, 25 

Mrs. p. Lands ! what's she here for ? 

Mil. {qinckly). What was it you said we said ? 

Mrs. p. Oh, yes, you was just mentioning that your ma 
was expectin' a little extra entertainment. Now, if I might be 
so bold, I just would like to be prepared — whether it was in 
the eating line or what. 

{She pushes her spectacles further on her nose and begins to 
examine the table. Mil. and Char, meet behind her 
back.') 

Mil. (horrified). Our surprise ! ! 

Char, Where is it ? 

Mil. I'd forgotten. 

Char. Oh, what shall we do ? 

Mrs. p. I hope she ain't made no great outlay in the line 
of expense, but I thought if I might be so bold — 

Mil. I — I — it must be a surprise. Mamma would be — 
so disappointed to have you know. Oh, won't you please 
come into the parlor, — won't you please take off your bonnet? 

Mrs. p. {pickifig up Mrs. Crannon's bonnet). Well, yes, 
thanks, just as you say. Is that Mis' Crannon's best Sunday 
bonnet ? 

Mil. Thi»way, please. 

Mrs. p. Jest as you say. I'm all ready. 

\_Exeunt Mil. and Mrs. P. 

(Char, sinks into chair <z. front, and looks out at the audi- 
ence, her eyes aiid 7nouth open with horror. Mil. comes 
back.) 

Mil. Oh, Charhna ! we have done it now. 

Char. I'd forgotten. I never told ma. 

]\IiL. {sitting down; despair iftgly). Do you want to tell 
her now ? 

Char. Have we got to ? 

Mil. I hope she won't find out until supper-time, and 
then {Shakes her head.) 

Char. They'll be disappointed, won't they? 

Mil. {rising). Disappointed ! Don't you understand ? 
When they see the Women's Aid they'll think that's the sur- 
prise — and they'll think we did it on purpose ! ! 

Char. {risi7tg). Mildred ! 

{They clasp each other's hands and sta/id looking at each 
other for a mome?it, then slowly sink down upon the floor. ^ 



26 SUNBONNETS. 

Char, {her head on Mil.'s shoulder). Oh, what shall we 
do? 

Mil. What shall we do ? 

{Knocking. Char, rises and runs to the window.) 
Char. It's Mrs. Tibbetts — Ladies' Benevolent. Hurry 
and let her in before any one else comes. We mustn't let 'em 
meet, now. [Exit Mil. 

(Char, draws rocking-chair back from c. front, and puts 
it at the back of the roo7n, where she stands leaning 
against it for a moment. This is in order to clear the 
stage for the next scene.) 

Enter Mil. and Mrs. Tibbetts, a short, dark, elderly woman, 
of seventy, with nasal voice. 

Mrs. T. Well, thank you, I ain't much more than crawlin' 
'round. 

Mil. Won't you take off your bonnet? 

Mrs. T. {taking it off and taking cap out of her reticule). 
Well, it don't scarcely seem worth while, but I s'pose I might. 

Mil. Mamma will be dehghted to see 

Mrs. T. {taking off spectacles which were on the top of her 
head, and adjusting cap at mirror). Well, I ain't no great to 
see, nor yet to hear, these days, and folks don't pay me the 
attention they'd ought to, neither. I ain't one to bear malice, 
but I feel free to say I ain't looked up to as I should be. 

Mil. Mamma is in the parlor. 

Mrs. T. I ain't really fit to be 'round, but I made a special 
effort. I'll be sick a-bed from it for a week, I know — but I 
don't s'pose you care, I don't s'pose you care. {Knocking.) 

Mil. {nervously). Mamma is waiting. 

Mrs. T. Well, I ain't ready, but I s'pose if it's to save you 
trouble I might as well gO along — but I ain't much more than 
crawlin' 'round. \Exeu7it Mil. a7id Mrs. T.; knocking. 

Char, {at window, and then running back and forth). It's 
Miss Spinney, Ladies' Benevolent, and Mildred's not here. 
{Knocking.) Oh, and I can't go — where is she? {Double 
knocking.) Sounds like two. {At window.) It's Mrs. Mar- 
tin, Women's Aid — they're both there together. {Eurious 
knocking.) Mildred, oh Mildred!! {Enter Mw..) There's 
Miss Spinney for you and Mrs. Martin for me, and they're 
both there together. {Continuous knocking.) Hear 'em, just 
hear 'em ! 



SUNBONNETS. 



27 



Mil. First come first served. 

Char. No, if you open the door, they'll both come in to- 
gether. We've both got to go ; come. 

{^Exeunt Mil. and Char. ; knocking ceases. Noise of 
voices. Enter rapidly Mrs. Martin, a stout dark woman 
with an aggrieved smile and a habit of tossing her head. 
She comes down to l. front, followed by Char.) 

Mrs. M. (angrily). Well, all I have to say is that it is un- 
fortunate, most unfortunate. 

Char. Won't you come this' way, this way. Mis' Martin? 

{Meantime enter Miss Spinney. On catching sight of Mrs. 
Martin she turns toward the door again. She is a round, 
blue-eyed, comfortable looking woman, rather more elabo- 
rately dressed than the others, evidently very much excited. 
She begins to walk back and forth front of the door with 
her back to the audience while Mil. stands ih the doorway.) 

Miss Sp. Well, I never, I do declare I never. 

Mil. Oh, do stay, do stay, mamma is expecting you. 

Mrs. M. {sta7nping across to r. front). I feel for Mis' 
Butterfield, but I don't feel called upon to be looked down on, 
— not by nobody. 

Char, {moving round and around her). This way, this 
way, and lay off your things upstairs. 

(Miss Spinney coines down to 1.. front ; she and Mrs. Mar- 
tin both begin to tug viciotisly at their bonnet strings.) 

Miss Sp. Such a mixed society, and here of all places — to 
think that Mis' DuBois should have allowed 

Mil. Put your things right down here ; mamma is so anx- 
ious to see you. 

Char. This way, this way, please ; mamma is waiting for 
you in the ground -floor bedroom. 

Mrs. M. {going "EL., taking off bonnet). Ground-floor bed- 
room ! Well, I never ! 

Miss Sp. {going l. taking off bonnet). Dredful wearin' to 
get your feelin's worked up so. 

Mrs. M. . , n f Ground-floor bedroom, well I never ! 

Miss Sp. ^ ^^ *^ ^' 1 1 do declare, I do declare I never ! 



28 SUNBONNETS. 

{Exit Miss Sp. l., Mrs. Martin r., both swi7iging their 
bonnets fu7'iously by one string. The girls run after 
them. Enter Mrs. B., r.) 

Mrs. B. Well, they seem to be gettin' along real quiet, 
managin' real nicely, Mildred and Charlina are — but seems 
like I couldn't set still, knowin' they was settin' in my front 
parlor. I ain't got no heart to look after the supper. But 
they're managin' real nicely, considerin' they're only girls. I 
hear some one ! don't look well for me to be out here. (^Moves 
hurriedly to l. fro7it.^ 

Char, {at door r.). Oh, ma, I wanted to tell you 

Mrs. B. I don't care nothin' about what you wanted to tell 
me. You stay here and tend door. \^Exit Mrs. B. 

Enter Mil. 

Mil. {thought/ ully~). Do you suppose they're all as mad as 
they pretend to be ? 

Char. Wouldn't be much fun to make believe, as far as I 
can see. 

Mil. I'm afraid they suspect something. 

Char, {looking at tables thoughtfully). And when supper 
time comes, they'll know. {She begins to pull the tables 
apart. ^ 

Mil. {hurries across). What are you going to do ? 

Char. I'm going to set two tables. If they eat separate, 
they can talk separate, and that'll be some comfort. 

Mil. {helpijig her carry the table across to l.). Oh, we've 
got to do something more than that. 

Char. We haven't got to, if we can't. 

Mil. {dropping her end of the table). No, I won't. 

Char. Won't what? 

Mil. I'm not going to set two tables. 

Char. -Well I am, anyway. 

Mil. The two tables ought to join and — the two societies 
ought to join. 

Char, {dropping a chair which she was putting at table). 
Whaat ! 

Mil. We ought to fix it somehow. Oh, what can we do 
— how long before supper ? 

Char. Five o'clock — half an hour. What 

Mil. If I could only manage to see them before they see 
each other. 



SUNBONNETS. 29 

Char. ( putting chairs , five around table L. , four around 
table R.). What good would that do ? 

Mil. I don't know, but it might do something — anyhow it 
couldn't be worse. 

Char, {looking out door l.). Hush — some one coming ! 

Mil. It's Miss Spinney ! I'm going to try her. 

Char, {eager yet doubtful'). How? 

Mil. I don't know — somehow. 

(Char, goes to r. back ; enter Miss Spinney, bonnet in hand.) 

Miss Sp. Land, land, I was so flurried I forgot my bonnet. 
{Lays it down l. back.) Well, I've told what I've seen, and 
what with putting two and two together, we're morally certain 
that the Women's Aid 

Mil. ■ I'm so glad to see you, Miss Spinney. (Miss Spinney 
looks around., both come down c. Mil. further front, so that 
Miss Sp.'s/<3:(r^ shows.) I — I've been so interested in the two 
societies, and now that the Women's Aid is here 

Miss Sp. (^<7^(?r/v). Women's Aid here ? Whereabouts? 

Mil. Well, they're in the ground-floor bedroom, just at 
present, but they'll be out here at supper-time, and I wanted 
to see you, to ask about that. {Rapidly.) Don't you think it 
would avoid complications if they could unite the two societies 
(Miss Sp. looks very much surprised), as they're talking of, 
you know. 

Miss Sp. {eagerly). Who's talkin' of it? 'Tvvould save a 
lot of trouble for some of us, and I s'pose it's sensible, but 
who ever started it ? 

Mil. Well, I thought, you and I — that is you might start 
it, if you would tell what you said just now, and 

Miss Sp. {indigna7itly). Excuse me., Mis* DuBois, excuse 
;«<?, I never said a word, not a word. You mistook me. I ain't 
never one to be the first to speak, I understood the others was 
talkin'. I never said a thing. Excuse me, I must be going 
back, \Exit. 

Char. I told you so ! 

Mil. Bad luck — only fifteen minutes more. 

Char. Hush ! there comes Mrs. Crannon. 

Mil. Let's hide. 

{Girls hide in doorway c. Enter l., Mrs. Cran. and 
crosses to r., gazing inte fitly at the door.) 



30 SUNBONNETS. 

Mrs. Cran. Miss Spinney says the Women's Aid's meetin' 
in there. ( Peeks around the corner of the door'). Seems like 
I couldn't stand it. I wonder 

Mil. {^putting her head in). Won't you sit down, Mrs. 
Crannon. 

Mrs. Cran. {^starts nervously). Ugh ! thank you — so kind. 
{^Both sit.) 

Mil. There's a quarrel I want to ask you about, Mrs. 
Crannon. 

Mrs. Cran. Certainly, my dear ; but hadn't you better go 
to Mr. Crannon about it ? He's so much more used to these 
little things. 

Mil. No, you can help me better, because — you see — it's 
this way. Hadn't it often, — that is, sometimes occurred to you 
how much more sociable it would be to have the two societies 
unite ? 

Mrs. Cran. It would be more congenial for Mr. Crannon in 
his work, but I never supposed they'd think of it. How 

Mil. Well, they ain't thinking of it just yet, but I hoped 
they might be, and I hoped perhaps if you agree with me this 
would be the best time convenient, to propose if you would start 
it — to propose that they should join. 

Mrs. Cran. (much alarmed ; rises). Oh no, oh no. You 
quite misunderstood me, I wouldn't put obstacles in the way, 
not if the others started it, but please don't quote me as say- 
ing anything of the sort. It would be so prejudicial to Mr. 
Crannon in his work— I must go back. I just came out for 
my — scissors — I can't find them, never mind, I must go-— you 
understand that I don't want to be quoted as saying anything 
of the sort. Mr. Crannon would be so displeased, it would 
never do, never. \_Exit hurriedly. 

Mil. (sadly). What time is it ? 

Char. Two minutes to five. 

Mil. No use ! 

Char. I told you so. 

Mil. (with gesture of despair). Ring the bell. 

(Char, crosses to r. back and rings large bell j buzz of con- 
versation begins in the wings.) 

Chorus of Women's Aid (loud and fast). It's not a mite 
of matter. Mis' Butterfield — we feel for you — we understand — 
we're comin' right along — and we're standin' on our dignity — 
don't you be a mite aff eared — etc. 



SUNBONNETS. - 3 1 

Chorus of Ladies' Benevolent {loud and fast). After 
you, Mis' DuBois thank you — so kind — don't trouble yourself for 
us — after you — really now, well if I must — well, as I was a 
sayin' — etc. 

{Doors R. and l. open. Enter on one side Mrs. Pheelan, 
on the other Mrs. Tibbetts, both still talking ; when they 
catch sight of each other they stop, glance at each other 
angrily, and cofne down the centre of the stage in perfect 
silence. Noise outside continues. Mrs. Martin and 
Mrs. Pendleton <f?//^r y same business.) 

Mrs. T. {to Mrs. Pend. as she comes near her). So this 
is the surprise Mis' DuBois was preparin' ? 
Mrs. p. Well, I do say it's a curious one. 

Enter Miss Sanford and Miss Spinney ; same business. 
Women's Aid form group r. of stage i?i front of table ; 
Ladies' Benevolent group l. Enter Mrs. Cran. 

Mrs. Cran. {not noticing where she is going). Yes, I 
know, Mr. Crannon would be delighted, but his .time is so 
taken up and {finds herself afnong the W. A.), oh dear, where 
am I? 

{Hurries L. to L. B. Stiff and absolute silence. Enter 
Mrs. B. and Mrs. DuBois. Mrs. B. glances angrily at 
Mrs. D. and motions her toward table L.) 

Mrs. B. {with an effort; at table ^r.). Now, draw right up 
and set down, all of you. I hope you feel real hearty. {No 
one moves.) _ 

Mrs. D. {with constrained airiness at table l.). Now gather 
about and refresh yourselves without ceremony. Make your- 
selves welcome, more than I can but as much as you, as I 
should like to — you understand ; pray sit down. {No one 
moves.) 

Char, {aside to Mil.). They think it's your ma's enter- 
tainment, and oh ! aren't they mad. 

Mil. Well, it is a surprise. Come get the tea. 

\_Exeunt c. 

Mrs. B. {pointing to chairs one after another). Side of me 
Mis' Pheelan, this way. Mis' Martin, set right down, Miss 
Pheeny. 

Mrs. D. Yes, pray do, won't you? Sit here, Mrs. Cran- 






32 SUNBONNETS. 

non, on my right, and Mrs. Tibbetts on my left, and Mrs. Pen- 
dleton there, and Miss Spinney there, do sit down. 

{After a momenf s hesitation all sit silently and stiffly. 
Enter Mil. and Char, with two teapots. Mil. has a 
plate of cold meat for the L. B. The W. A. eye it sig- 
nificantly .) 

Mrs. M. {low tone). Dreadful tony ! 

Miss T. Dreadful ! I hope they'll enjoy it. 

{Silence. Mil. and Char, pass biscuits, etc. Mrs. B. a7id 
Mrs. D. who sit facing the audience pour tea.) 

Mil. {passing food to L. B.). Will you have a biscuit ; this 
is your tea. 

Char, {to W. A.). Can't I pass you something, Miss 
Pheeny, are you helped to sauce ? 

Mil. Do you take cream ? Help yourself. 

Char. I guess this tea' 11 suit you, Mis' Martin. 

Mil, Here's the sugar. Won't you have some meat? 

Mrs. B. I'm afraid these biscuits ain't up to yours. Mis' 
Pheelan. 
. Mrs. Ph. Real limber, I call them. 

Mrs. D. {nervously). This cold meat is delicious really. 

L. B. Humph ! 

(Mrs. B. looks furious.) 

Mrs. D. {faintly). Really delicious. 

Mrs. p. {who has been uneasy for some time, now holds 
up the two halves of a biscuit). I raise mine over night and 
grease 'em. {Her voice drops. ) I don' know as I'm particular 
about talkin' 'fore so many. {Silence grows oppressive.) 

Mrs. D. {looks nervously from one to the other, then rises 
and hurj'ies over to Mrs. B. ; a^ixiously). They won't talk. 

Mrs. B. {pointing toward table). Well, I ain't going to 
make 'em for you. 

Mrs. D. {returns to table l. and sits down, looking about 
at them jiervously). I wonder if you all agree with me in be- 
ing fond of Tennyson. X^^ answer.) I know some people 
prefer Longfellow, but there seems to me a most attractive lack 
— a most — er — rhythm in his works which — don't you think so. 



SUNBONNETS. 



33 



I hope we shall all agree by and by (rising) when I've read you 
some of my favorite bits — poems that are real old friends to 
me. ( Goes up c.) 

Mrs. T. Humph ! 

Mrs J2^ Was that the surprise she was preparin' ? 

Miss Sp. I guess there's surprise enough here. 

Mrs. D. [coining back with a book ; stands c). Perhaps if 
you like, I might read a little to you all, now. You'll be more 
enthusiastic when you've heard me. 

Mrs. B. She dotes on readin' out. 

Miss Sp. Air you partial to loud readin'. Mis' Pendleton? 

Mrs. p. I don't set much store by it. 

Miss T. Do you favour bein' read out to, Mis' Martin ? 

Mrs. M. I don't seem to take in much. 

Mrs. D. (who has at last found her place). Now there is a 
charming little scene in ''Maud." — It is at night — moonhght, 
and he waits 

Miss T. 'Twouldn't look very good, but if we could get 
our supper down first 

Miss Sp. 'Tain't comp'ny manners — but if we could get 
something to eat first. (All begin to eat very fast.) 

Mrs. Ph. Seems onnatural, somehow, but I suppose if I've 
got to stand it, why I can put up with it; but eatin' and 
readin' wan't never meant to go in double harness, seems to 
me. \_Exeunt Mil. and Char. 

(All begin to talk at once, eating all the time. Indistinct 
chorus of, "Ves, do hev a piece— do tell now, well, — / 
relish it, pretty well — my vittles don't set — yes, thank you 
I will — do help yourself, won't you — pass me — thanks,'' 
etc.) 

Mrs. D. (who has made several ineffectual attempts to be 
heard). Well, they seem to be enjoying themselves at last, I 
guess I shall have to wait. 

(She sits down. Enter Char, with plate of light cake, and 
Mil. with fruit cake and apple pie. She sets cake on ta- 
ble L. and begins to cut pie with a knife.) 

Miss T. (gazing at fruit cake). Look ! 
Mrs. M. Look ! ! 
Mrs. Ph. I see ! 



34 SUNBONNETS, 

Miss T. (as Mil. begins ia pass the pie). I'm rather 
partial to hot apple pie, myself — but I wouldn't touch a morsel 
of that, not for anything. 

Mrs. M. If there's one kind of cake I relish more than 
another it's fruit — oh, we've got gold and silver ; l-prtfer that. 

Mrs. Ph. Better for you. Mis' Martin, better for you ; 
fruit cake sets like lead on the stomach. {All eat ; low buzz 
of CO fivers ation . ) 

Miss T. Let me know when you hear the mail train, 
Charlina — such a noise, I shouldn't know. 

Char. It just drawed out of the station. Miss Pheeny. 

Miss T. Land, how time does go ! Excuse me, Mis' 
Butterfield, excuse me, iwith an efforf) all. Be back soon, 
but the mail can't wait for nobody, that's my motto. Good- 
bye for now. Where's my shawl? {^Exeunt Mil. and Char. 

Mrs. T. Dreadful considerate, ain't she ? 

Miss Sp. (Jielping herself to pie'). I s'pose she earns her 
keep. Likely enough woman for a postmastmistress. 

Mrs. M. {looks at Miss Spinney). Can I trouble you for a 
little of the sauce, Mis' Butterfield ? Accordin' to me, now, 
hot apple pie ain't much 'better than poison at night. 

Mrs. Ph. Seems like some folks could eat anything. 

Mrs. p. I'll trouble you for the cake plate, Miss Spinney. 
'Tain't bad, really. 

Miss Sp. More citron' 11 make a richer cake. 

Mrs. T. Don't put as much spice in it as some, do she? 

Mrs. p. And more spice do make a tastier cake. But 
I s'pose it's an expense she ain't used ter. 

Mrs. M. They're passin' remarks on your cake. Mis' 
Butterfield. 

Mrs. B. They're eatin' it, all the same. 

Mrs. T. Sugars her pie with brown sugar, don't she. 

Mrs. p. {prying up the crust of her pie). She do, don't 
she. 

Mrs. Cran. {timidly). I s'pose it's healthful. 

Mrs. B. {angrily). I never put brown sugar in a pie in all 
my born days ! {Awful hush.) 

Mrs. M. {significantly). Some folks think an awful sight 
about vittles, seems to me. 

Mrs. Ph. Glad I wasn't brought up to think it was 
comp'ny manners to criticise — like some folks. 

Mrs. T. Glad I wasn't brought up to make personal re- 
marks — like some folks. 



Kh 



SUNBONNETS. 35 

Mrs. Ph. Them as finds it personal can take it to them- 
selves. 

(Mrs. Tibbetts pushes back her chdir.') 

Mrs. M. I've heard about cupboard-love, ain't you. Mis* 
Pheelan — I guess we know now what one society in this town 
meets for. 

Mrs. p. (rising). Ain't used to good comp'ny, air they? 

Mrs. Ph. (rising). I'm used to my own. 

Miss Sp. Them as feel that way should be left to enjoy it, 
/say. (Mrs. Tibbetts rises.) 

Mrs, p. We'll give our room, when our comp'ny ain't 
wanted. 

Mrs. M. (rising). 'Tain't the first time our society has had 
to get rid of your society. 

Miss Sp. (starting toward door). Well, I say what my ma 
said, sunbonnets is a mark of 

Mrs.' M. (also starting to door). Well, as old Mis' Greely 
said, them as is too tony 

Mrs. Pend. (^slowly shaking each foot as she follows them 
toward door). I shake the dust of this house off my feet. 

(Mrs. Cran. and Mrs. D. rise, Mrs. Martin goes out r. 
and comes back immediately 7vith sunbonnet.) 

Mrs. T. Where's my bonnet ? 
Miss Sp. Where's my crepe shawl ? 

Mrs. T. (pointing to Mrs. Martin). Couldn't get along 
without a sunbonnet, could she ? 

(L. B. titter hatefully ; enter Mil. and Char, excited.) 

Mil. Miss Pheeny's coming with two letters. 
Char. She's running, too. 

Enter Miss T. 

Miss T. {breathless). I just come from sortin' the mail, 
and I brung along two letters. There's one for the Women's 
Aid, and one (her voice changes) for the Ladies' Benevolent. 
Here, Mis' Martin, you're our secretary. 

(Miss Sp. takes one letter, Mrs. Martin the other ; both 
come down front, folloived by the others ; they fortn two 
groups, R. and L. as before.) 



36 SUNBONNETS. 

Do tell ! 

I want to know ! 

Postmarked Tallahoe, Sandwich Islands. 
From the Sandwich Islands ! 
From that missionary we sent a box to. 

{Business of astonishment. ) 

Must be that missionary we was workin' for. 
(reads'). '* To the members of the Ladies' Benev- 
olent " — what's that ? 

'Miss Sp. " To the members of the Women's Aid" — for 
the land's sake ! 

(Murmurs of ^'- Our missionary — the same man,'^ etc.) 

Mrs. M. Got the letters mixed — did you ever ! 

Mrs. p. Got 'em in the wrong envelope ! well, I never!, 
what do he say ? 

Mrs. M. ''It is with many thanks and a grateful 
heart " 



Miss Sp. 


Mrs. 


M. 


Miss Sp. 


Mrs. 


M. 


Mrs. 


Ph 


Mrs. 


P. 


Mrs. 


M. 



Miss Sp. ** It is with a grateful heart and many thanks 

(^Murmur of " Ain't that queer ,^ ") 
Mrs. M. '' That I acknowledge the most welcome 



Miss Sp. ''That I make acknowledgment of a most wel- 
come gift ' ' 

Mrs. p. and Miss T. Of what ? what did they send ? 
Miss Sp. " Of a box of clothes and household utensils " 



(Murmur of ^' A box of household utetisils and clothes.^'') 

Mrs. M. "I would mention with especial gratitude the 
eleven frying pans " 

Miss Sp. "As of especial value I may speak of the seven- 
teen odd c:irnet slippers which can be sorted and most usefully 
dispensed among our parishioners ; the sunbonnets also " 

Mrs. M. "Also the sunbonnets " 

Mrs. Ph. (eagerly). Did they send sunbonnets? 

Mrs. T. and Mrs. P. Sunbonnets ! We never sent sun- 
bonnets. 

Miss Sp. (much embarrassed). I — I sent 'em, they be- 
longed to my grandmother, /never wore 'em. 

Mil. (aside). But anything is good enough for a mission- 
ary. Oh, I've got an idea — get my sunbonnet, Charlina. 



SUNBONNETS. 



37 



Mrs. M. There's more yet. 

Mrs. Ph. Seein' it's their letter hadn't we better hand it 
over ? 

Mrs. M. Don't make much difterence, as far as I can 
see. '' I am writing by the same mail to the Women's Aid So- 
ciety in your town." 

Mrs. Ph. That's us ! 

Miss Sp. And he says he's writin' to the Ladies' Benev- 
olent. 

Mrs. M. " — To acknowledge a similar gift, though of 
course I cannot understand that a happy little community like 
yours would be divided in any good work, and the two societies 
are of course the same ! ' ' 

Miss Sp. ' ' — That the two societies are of course the same. ' ' 

(Ail look at each other astonished.^ 

Mrs. p. Did he think that ? 

Mrs. Ph. Is that the way he looks at it ? 

(^Murmur of <' Land ! Land .^ ") 

Mrs. T. Thinks we're all one society, do he? 

Mil. {coming forward^. Outside people seem to think it's 
all one society, don't they? I've never really understood the 
difference, myself — what is it ? (All look confused ?) You see, 
you have the same end, for you've both been working for the 
same missionary, so that can't be the difference. 

Mrs. M. {angrily). Well, there is differences. 

Miss Sp. {contemptuously). Yes, there is differences. 

Mil. Well, what are they, — not what you have to eat. 

{Ilfurmur of ' ' No — no. " ) 

Mil. Well, then, what? 

(Mrs. Tibbetts steps forward and looks Mrs. Martin over 
from head to foot.) 

Mrs. T. Humph. 

Mrs. M. {furiously). Well, why don't you speak out. 
/ain't goin' to be called " sunbonnets. " 

Mil. Why do you object to sunbonnets ? Forty years ago 
sunbonnets were out, now sunbonnets are in. 

{Puts on her sunbonnet and puts her arm around Charlina.) 



38 SUNBONNETS. 

Char. They never made any trouble between Mildred and 
me. 

Mil. Why, they're all the rage. Here, mamma. {She 
brings forward Mrs. D. and puts the sunbonnet on her, tying 
the strings carefully in a bow under her chin.) Now, you don't 
dare tell me that she doesn't look well. 

Mrs. D. Do I look nice, really ? 

{All look at each other and then look back at Mrs. D.) 

Mrs. p. (slowly). Do city folks wear 'em? 

Mrs. D, Yes, they're fashionable among all the best so- 
ciety people. 

Mil. Everybody wears 'em — especially when they go out 
to tea. {Aside.) Golf-tea. 

Mrs. Ph. {after a pause in which they look at 'each other sig- 
nificantly). Well, if they're stylish enough for Mis' Du- 
Bois 

Miss Sp. Well, if they ' re stylish .enough for city-folks, I s' pose 
they're stylish enough for us. 

Mrs. T. Forty years do make a sight of difference. 

Mrs. Ph. {coming forward ; slowly). Forty years ago. 
Mis' Tibbetts, we was girls, and there was one society. We're 
old women, now, and I ain't never spoke to you since. 

Mrs. T. {to L. B.). Seems like 'twas time sort of wasted, 
don't it ? {She steps forward and holds out her hand to Mrs. 
Pheelan.) Well, I hope there won't nobody in this town 
waste forty years like that again. 

{They shake hands and pass up the middle of the stage still 
holding hands, to the back. Mrs. Crannon with her 
handkerchief at her eyes falls into Miss Sanford's arms 
and they follow the other pair. Miss Sp. and Mrs,, Mar. 
step forward to the centre fro7tt.) 

Miss Sp. I was madder'n a wet hen when I met you this 
afternoon. 

Mrs. M. I was kind o' riled, myself, but I guess Pm kind 
of smoothed down some, now. 

{They shake hands and pass up c. Mrs. B. looks about, 
then comes forward, lays her hands on Mrs. D.'s shoulders 
and gives her a resounding kiss on each cheek. Then 
Mrs. B, and Char, take one table, Mrs. D. and Mil. the 



SUNBONNETS. 39 

other and move them together so as to form one long table 
across the stage. The L. B. and W. A. are cordially 
shakt?ig hands and saying, ^^ How do,'' — *' Well, I am 
glad to see you,'' — " Are you well? " etc., in the back of 
the stage.) 

Mrs. B. Now set right down every one of you. I know 
you ain't done much more than peck at your food, and there's 
fruit cake enough for all. 

( General movement toward the tables ; low buzz of conver- 
sation for four or five seconds, then Mrs. Crannon's 
voice rises, as they stand about the table:) 

Mrs. Cran. And, oh, Mr. Crannon will find it so much 
more congenial ! 



CURTAIN. 



A NEW IRISH DRAMA. 



FAUQH=A=BALLAQH 

or, THE WEARING OF THE GREEN. 

A Romantic Irish Play in Three Acts. 

By BERNARD FRANCIS MOORE. 

Author of "Captain Jack," "The Irish Agent," "The Rough Rider," etc. 

Nine male, two female characters. Scenery varied but simple ; cos- 
tumes military and ragged. Another Irish drama in this author's well- 
known and popular style, like its predecessors easy and effective to act, 
and true and sympathetic in its presentation of Irish character. All 
characters effective, both comedy and serious. Plays a full evening. 

Price ...... 25 Cents. 



SYNOPSIS: 

ACT I.— The wearing of the green. The patriot priest. Black Don- 
ald's courtship. The spy. Gerald and Alice. Out of exile. The hour of 
need. The Squire's plot. An unseen witness. The man of the hour. "I 
know that I can trust you." The accusation, A counter plot. To the res- 
cue. The tables turned. The Green above the Red. 

ACT II. — The outlaw's home. An awkward squad. A soldier priest. 
Brother and sister. A discovery. Betrayed by a friend. A good smoke. 
Kitty Callahan and the ghost. Kissing a spirit. An unfortunate substi- 
tute. "Take that for yer throuble." The captured spy. The Squire's danger. 
Alice's escape. "Let us hang the both of them." A halt. Face to face at 
last. The man of God. Good for evil. "The road lies before you — go !" 
The Red above the Green. 

ACT III.— The cabin in the hills. Myles ahead. Another taste of the 
spirit. Kitty's suspicions. The ghost's command. " In order to save 
yer life, I'll marry ye." The eagle and the crow. An unwelcome visitor. 
Offers of peace. The silver lining. The outlaw's wooing. Myles and the 
Squire. " Now will I bust him on the head wid a bit o' rock ? " A free 
pardon. Forgive and forget. Westward ho! The Stars and Stripes over 

ALL. 



A Black Trump. 

A "Black-Face" Comedy in Two Acts. 

By DAVIS RISDON. 

Three male, four female characters. Scenery, a simple interior; cos- 
tumes, modern and rough. An entirely unique piece of its kind, — a 
" straight" comedy of light but serious interest, written almost entirely 
for "colored" characters. A very amusing piece, full of characteristic 
darkey humor, its dialect and character-drawing being wholly excep- 
tional in truth and vigor. Recommended as a downright novelty in enter- 
tainments. Plays an hour. 

Price 15 Cents. 

Sent, postpaid, on receipt of price, by 

BAKER, 5 HAMILTON PLACE, BOSTON, MASS. 



THE MAGISTRATE. 



A Farce in Three Acts. By Arthitr W. 

Pi>'KKO. Twelve male, four female char- 
" acters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, all 
interior. The merits' of this excellent and amusing piece, one of the most popu- 
lar of its author's plays, are well attested by long and repeated runs in the 
principal American theatres. Tt is of the highest class of dramatic writing, and 
is uproariously funny, and at the same time unexceptionable in tone. Its entire 
suitability for amateur performance has been shown by hundreds of such pro- 
ductions from manuscript during the past three years. Plays two hours and 
a half. (1892.) 



THE NOTORIOUS 
MRS. EBBSMITH. 



A Drama in Four Acts. By Arthur W. 
PiNERO. Eight male and five female charac- 
ters; scenery, all interiors. This is a "prob- 
lem " play continuing the series to which " The 

Profligate " and "The Second Mrs. Tanqueray" 

belong, and while strongly dramatic, and intensely interesting is not suited for 
amateur performance. It is recommended for Reading Clubs. (1895.) 



XTTP" PPOTTT in A XF I -^ ^^^7 ^^ ^^^^' Acts. By Arthur W. Pine- 
■»■•'■ ■'■■^ ■•• A^v-ri i^iyjrx. x a^» ^^^~^^ Seven male and five female characters. 

• ' Scenery, three interiors, rather elaborate ; 

costumes, modern. This is a piece of serious interest, powerfully dramatic in 
movement, and tragic in its event. An admirable play, but not suited for ama- 
teur performance. (1892.) 



THE SCHOOLMISTRESS. 



A Farce in Three Acts. By Arthur 
W. PiXERO. Nine male, seven fe- 
male characters. Costumes, mod- 
ern : scenery, three interiors, easily arranged. This ingenious and laughable 
farce was playe<l by >liss Kosina Vokes during her last season in America with 
great success. Its plot is amusing, its action rapid and full of incident, its dia- 
logue brilliant, and its scheme of character especially rich in quaint and humor- 
ous types. The Hon. Vere Queckett and Peggy are especially strong. The piece 
is in all respects suitable for amateurs. (1894.) 



THE SECOND 

MRS. TANQUERAY. 



A Play in Four Acts. By Arthur W. 
PiXERO. Eight male and five female char- 
acters. Costumes, modern : scenery, three 
interiors. This well-known and powerful 
play is not well suited for amateur per- 
formance. It is offered to Mr. Pinero's admirers among the reading public in 
answer to the demand which its wide discussion as an acted play lias created. 
(1894.) Also in Cloth, $1.00. 



SWEET LAVENDER. 



A Comedy in Three Acts. By Arthur 
W. PiNEKO. Seven male and four female 
characters. Scene, a single interior, the 
same for all three acts ; costumes, modern and fashionable. This well known 
and popular piece is admirably suited to amateur players, by whom it has been 
often given during the last few years. Its story is strongly sympathetic, and its 
comedy interest abundant and strong. (1893.) 



THE TIMES. 



A Comedy in Four Acts. By Arthur "W. Ptnero. Six 
male and seven female charactere. Scene, a single ele- 
gant interior ; costumes, modern and fashionable. An 

entertaining piece, of strong dramatic interest and admirable satirical humor. 

(1892.) 



THE WEAKER SEX. 



A Comedy in Three Acts. By Arthur 
W. PiNERO. Eight male and eight female 
characters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, 
two interiors, not difficult. This very amusing comedy was a popular feature of 
the repertoire of Mr. and Mrs. Kendal in this country. It presents a plot of 
strong dramatic interest, and its incidental satire of '" Woman's Rights" em- 
plovs some admirably humorous characters, and inspires many very clever lines. 
Its leading characters are unusuallv even in strength and prominence, which 
makes it a very satisfactory piece for amateurs. (.1894.) , 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 







JK NEW OPERETTAS FOR ( 

A 015 785 506 

f EDITH'S DREAM.' 




an ©peretta for Cl}tltiren. 



m Words by MARGARET FEZANDIE and EDGAR MORETTE. 
vS Music by EUGENE FEZANDIE, Jr. 

I 

/|\ Price 35 cents. 

* 

I ODD OPERASMEVENTIDE. 

^i^ A Collection of Short and Simple Musical 

A"^ Entertainments for Children. 



Eleven characters, girls and boys, or all girls, as preferred ; ten or more addi- 
tional for chorus. Scenery unnecessary; costumes, pretty and fanciful, but 
easily arranged at home. This admirable little piece is printed complete witli 
music. It is very tuneful and gracefully imagined, and is strongly recommended 
for private theatricals or for schools. It is particularly well suited for the latter 
use, as it deals Avhimsically with the question of youthful study, inculcating, 
however, an excellent moral. 



By MRS. G. N. BORDMAN. 



This collection provides a simple operetta, a fairy opera, a picturesque motion 
Bong, a quaint musical pantomime, a pretty musical sketch, and two original 
humorous recitations for children, complete, Avith all the music, and full instruc- 
tions for performance. The music is tuneful and simple, and is specially written 
with the tastes and limitations of children In view. The solos are easily learned 
and sung, and all the choruses are written for voices in unison. The collection 
is strongly recommended for its simplicity and perfect practicability. Neither 
stage nor scenery is demanded, nor any other requirements that cannot be met 
without trouble by the equipment of the ordinary hall or church vestry, and the 
zeal of the most economical committee of arrangements. 



Price 



CONTENTS. 



50 cents. 



A Glimpse of the Brownies. A 

Musical Sketch for Children. Any 
u umber of boys. 

Market Day. An Operetta for Young 
People. Seven speaking parts and 
chorus. 

Queen Flora's Day Dream. An 

Operetta for Children. Six speak- 
ing parts and chorus. 



Musical 
Thirty 



The jBoatingr Party. A 

Sketch for Little Children, 
boys and girls. 

Six L,ittle Grandmas. A Musical 
Pantomime fqr very Little Children. 
Six very little girls. 

Jimmy Crow. A Recitation fpr a 

Little Girl. 

A House in the Moon. A Recita- 
tion for a Child. 



